Arlee Shooting Victim Identified – Suspect Released From Custody

The victim in Wednesday afternoon’s fatal shooting has been identified. Sheriff Don Bell said the incident occurred just after 3:30 p.m. at a residence in Arlee.

“Sheriff’s deputies, tribal police and EMS responded to a residence on Sanders Street,” Bell began. “Upon arrival it was determined that 49 year-old Leonard L. Peak, Jr. or Arlee had died as a result of a gunshot wound. The person who fired the fatal shot was taken into custody but was released after questioning and no charges have been filed at this time.”

Bell said that other witnesses have been interviewed and the investigation is ongoing. “There is no threat to the community or neighborhood related to this incident and no other details will be released at this time,” he said. Peak’s body was transported to the Montana State Crime Lab for autopsy.